Neurodiversity Tip Tuesday: Understanding Sensory Overload

For many neurodivergent individuals, the world can feel overwhelming in ways that others may never notice. This experience is called sensory overload — when sights, sounds, smells, textures, or movements become “too much” for the brain to process at once.

What Sensory Overload Feels Like

Imagine being in a crowded grocery store:

• The fluorescent lights are buzzing.

• Music is blaring overhead.

• A cart squeaks loudly with every turn.

• Strong smells drift in from the bakery and cleaning aisle.

For some neurodivergent people, all of these sensations arrive at full volume, all at once. It’s not just distracting — it can be exhausting, painful, and even lead to shutdowns or meltdowns.

Signs of Sensory Overload

Everyone experiences it differently, but some common signs include:

• Covering ears or eyes

• Needing to leave suddenly

• Increased anxiety, irritability, or withdrawal

• Difficulty focusing or responding

What Helps

💡 Here are a few simple ways to support someone experiencing sensory overload:

• Offer a quiet space to regroup.

• Allow the use of headphones, sunglasses, or fidgets indoors.

• Use gentle, calm communication.

• Avoid adding extra demands until the person feels settled.

Why It Matters

Understanding sensory overload helps us create environments that are not only more inclusive, but also kinder. Small adjustments — like dimming harsh lights or lowering background noise — can make a world of difference.

💙 At Where the Pieces Meet, it's been a joy to see one neurodivergent adult offer to help another by going on a walk outside when it gets too overstimulating. We believe in building spaces where sensory needs are respected, and where every person can feel comfortable being themselves.